U.S. track stars suspended

Published 4:00 am, Monday, July 27, 1998

NEW YORK - Two of the biggest names in U.S. track and field - shot putter Randy Barnes and sprinter Dennis Mitchell - have been suspended indefinitely for drug use.

Barnes, the 1996 Olympic gold medalist and the world indoor and outdoor record-holder, and Mitchell, the 1992 Olympic bronze medalist in the 100 meters, were cited Monday by the sport's world governing body for failing drug tests April 1.

Barnes, who could face a life suspension, was tested in Charleston, W.Va., and Mitchell in Gainesville, Fla.

His suspension was handed down last week and represents his first drug offense.

IAAF spokesman Giorgio Reneiri said Monday from Monaco that Barnes and Mitchell tested positive during out-of-competition samples. Barnes tested positive for androstenedione, a banned nutritional supplement, Reneiri said. Mitchell tested positive for testosterone. If found guilty following the B sample, he probably would receive a two-year ban.

So far, only the A samples have been tested, Reneiri said. However, that is sufficient for the IAAF to levy a suspension. If their B samples are positive, the IAAF will then rule on the severity of the punishment pending a hearing by USATF. If the B sample is negative, they are cleared.

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